Principles of Development

Characteristics of Development You should be able to name and give an example of each of the five basic principles

Principle 1: Developmental sequence is similar for all.

Example of Development Diane and her family spent a month visiting relatives in Canada. Diane spent time playing with her brother, Brad, and her cousin, Timothy. Both are two-years-old. She found that both boys could run fairly well, stand on one foot, and climb stairs. By the end of the visit, Diane could see that the children did many things alike; she thought this was surprising because the two had never played together before.

Principle 2: Development builds on earlier learning.

Principle 2: Development builds on earlier learning (simple to complex).

Example of Development Maria is helping her younger sister Janie learn the alphabet. She seems to be catching on quickly. Yesterday, Janie could even pick some of the letters out of written words in one of her books. Maria knows that soon Janie will be able to point out a few simple words. Later, she will be able to read short phrases and sound out words.

Principle 3: Development proceeds at individual rates.

Example of Development Joshua and Nicole are cousins born about two months apart. Although Joshua is older, Nicole began to sit and stand about the same time as Joshua. This has been slightly puzzling to Joshua’s parents. They are worried about Joshua’s apparently slow rate of development.

Principle 4: All domains of development are interrelated.

Example of Development Michael always had trouble in school. He did poorly on tests and was seldom able to answer questions. Some of the other children called him “dummy.” As a result, he was shy and had little self-confidence. Since he started wearing glasses, he has been doing better. He feels good about himself and has been able to make friends more easily.

Principle 5: Development is continuous.

Example of Development Jessica is an active three-year-old who enjoys dressing herself. Lately she has started choosing her clothes each morning. Her parents are amazed at her constant eagerness to learn new things. It seems she never stops wanting to learn.